Are Dental Expenses Deductible?
Are Dental Expenses Deductible?
With tax time almost upon us, our Manhattan pediatric dental patients’ parents sometimes ask us if their children’s dental care is deductible on state and/or federal taxes. As you know, medical expenses can be deducted if they meet IRS criteria. The same is true of dental expenses. Here are some dental expenses that might be deductible—to be certain, talk with your CPA or tax accountant.
What Health Expenses are Usually Deductible on State and/or Federal Taxes?
Dental expenses of dependents and spouses are deductible based on the medical and dental expenses paid in that tax year.
In general, preventive care is ripe for a write-off. This includes:
- Fluoride treatments,
- Sealants,
- Dental exams and cleanings
- Dental x-rays.
- Fillings
- Orthodontic braces
- Travel expenses to and from the dentist i.e., mileage, taxi/subway costs, and parking.
How to Know If A Medical & Dental Expense Meets IRS Criteria
This IRS publication lists the items you can include as deductions when you pay for the prevention and treatment of dental disease. Preventive treatment includes the services noted above, such as those given by a dental hygienist or dentist for teeth cleaning, the application of sealants, and fluoride treatments to prevent tooth decay. Treatment to treat dental disease include services of a dentist for procedures such as X-rays, fillings, braces, extractions, dentures, and other dental ailments.
Tax time is never fun for anyone, but a little knowledge can save you money!